Relations between Brussels and Ankara have been complicated for years. Now the EU wants closer ties again – but there are still some hurdles.
After years of standstill, the EU wants to revive relations with Türkiye. The European Union has a strategic interest in a stable environment in the Eastern Mediterranean and a mutually beneficial relationship, according to a statement by the heads of state and government adopted overnight in Brussels. What is crucial, however, is the extent to which Ankara participates constructively.
Specifically, proposals from the EU Commission will be used. For example, it recently advocated considering resuming talks about modernizing the customs union between the EU and Turkey.
This project, a planned visa liberalization and EU accession talks had previously been put on hold due to regressions in the rule of law in Turkey.
The EU Commission recently also emphasized that the comparatively uncritical Turkish attitude towards the militant Islamist Hamas contradicts the EU’s position. Hamas classifies this as a terrorist organization.
Cyprus issue
During the negotiations, Cyprus ensured that its conflict with Turkey was also discussed. The island of Cyprus has been de facto divided in two since 1974 following a Greek coup and Turkish military intervention. In the north there is the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, which is only recognized by Turkey. Turkish soldiers are stationed there. The government of the EU island republic in Nicosia controls the south of the island.
The whole of Cyprus has been a member of the EU since 2004. However, as long as there is no reunification, EU law only applies in the south of the island. The joint statement says we remain committed to a comprehensive solution that is in line with previous UN resolutions and EU principles. The European Union is ready to play an active role.
Relations between the EU and Turkey have been heavily strained for years and the accession process is on hold.